According to Lawal, the congresses were marred by irregularities, with Yari reportedly using financial incentives and political pressure to handpick loyalists rather than allowing genuine party members to elect their representatives. He claims that the lists of elected officials were filled with names of individuals who are not even registered members of the APC, including some allegedly affiliated with opposition parties such as the Peoples Democratic Party and the African Democratic Congress. This, he argues, is a deliberate attempt to hijack the party structure and weaken its grassroots foundation.
Lawal further alleges that officials from the APC national headquarters and the Independent National Electoral Commission were compromised, lured into private meetings where predetermined lists were drawn up without any proper voting process. He describes this as a blatant disregard for democratic principles, warning that such actions could erode public trust in the party and alienate loyal members who have dedicated years to building its presence in Zamfara.
Among those implicated in the controversy are Tijjani Yahaya Kaura, Lawal M Liman Kaura, and the state APC Chairman, Tukur Dan Fulani, all accused of collaborating in what Lawal terms an "anti-party scheme." He insists that the entire exercise was a charade, designed to consolidate power in the hands of a select few while sidelining the majority of party faithful. If left unchecked, he warns, this could lead to deep divisions and a potential crisis within the APC in Zamfara.
The situation has taken a more alarming turn with Lawal’s claims that Yari has been engaging in secret negotiations with leaders of the African Democratic Congress, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. These alleged backdoor dealings have fueled suspicions among APC members, with Lawal suggesting that Yari may be planning to defect to the ADC while taking a significant portion of the Zamfara APC structure with him.
In a direct appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Lawal urges caution, describing Yari as an untrustworthy figure whose actions could undermine the party’s stability. He points to reports that Yari may have financially supported ADC candidates in the recent Abuja council elections, a move that, if proven, would constitute a serious breach of party loyalty. Lawal emphasizes that the APC’s integrity must not be sacrificed for personal ambitions, calling for an immediate investigation into the allegations to prevent further damage.
The unfolding drama in Zamfara highlights broader challenges within Nigeria’s political landscape, where internal party democracy often takes a backseat to personal interests. Lawal’s outspoken criticism reflects growing frustration among rank-and-file members who feel marginalized by powerful figures manipulating party structures for their own gain. If the APC fails to address these concerns, it risks not only internal strife but also a loss of credibility among voters who expect transparency and fairness from their leaders.
As the controversy deepens, the spotlight remains on how the national leadership of the APC will respond. Will they intervene to restore order and uphold democratic principles, or will they allow the situation to fester, potentially weakening the party’s position in Zamfara ahead of future elections? The answers to these questions could shape the political trajectory of the state and influence the broader narrative around party governance in Nigeria.
For now, Ibrahim Lawal’s allegations serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of internal democracy in Nigerian politics, where money and influence often dictate outcomes rather than the will of the people. His call for accountability resonates with many who believe that true progress can only be achieved when power is exercised with integrity and respect for due process.
